Holly & Heather’s Helpful Hint: It’s How You Say It

by helpinghandstwins

We had the experience of hearing somebody tell a story about a note they received – a note that was meant to be helpful – and it was written in all capital letters with a giant exclamation point at the end. The receiver of the note felt that he was being yelled at instead of receiving a well-meaning message. Have you even gotten a text or email with, as we call it, “shouty capitals”? Whatever the words were meant to convey, it’s like all we “hear” are the shouty capitals.

This can be true with any exchange, via the written word or verbally face to face. It’s not always what you say it’s how you say it. Sometimes we all need to take a minute before we speak or write and think about how we sound. How would we feel to receive this message if it were directed toward us? Even the most well intended comment can be hurtful if it is not said in a kind way. Let’s think about our words this week and try really hard to use them in a way that uplifts spirits and promotes kindness.